As you near the end of your medical training, the next big step is finding a job — not just any job, but the right job.
So, how can you ensure it will be a good fit?
Eric Mann, MD, is an experienced ophthalmologist and the founder/CEO of Lucens. Here are his thoughts on what to watch out for when job hunting:
1. There’s a high turnover of associates
Dr. Mann emphasizes the importance of understanding the history of the position you’re considering. "Ask how many associates have come and gone over the past 10 years," he advises. If there’s a pattern of people staying only a year or two, that’s a significant red flag. "It gives you a pretty good estimate of how long you’ll last at that job," he warns. Don’t be afraid to ask why previous employees left and, if possible, get their contact info so you can reach out.
2. They’re vague about compensation
When discussing salary, transparency is key. Dr. Mann cautions against employers who are secretive about how they’ll measure your productivity or calculate bonuses. "If a potential employer isn’t transparent when discussing their revenue, that’s a big red flag," he says. He also points out that while some employers may cite confidentiality, there should be enough trust to share financial details when you're seriously considering a position.
3. Communication is slow or inconsistent
Pay attention to how responsive the potential employer is during the hiring process. "It’s a common tactic for employers to stall the hiring process," Dr. Mann notes. This behavior can put candidates in a difficult position, especially if they’re approaching graduation and need to secure a job quickly. If an employer is slow to respond or unwilling to negotiate terms in a timely manner, it could lead to a take-it-or-leave-it job offer.
4. Staff feel unhappy or disrespected
How the staff is treated can be very telling. Dr. Mann advises job seekers to observe the work culture closely. "Look at the staff. Do they seem happy? How do the leaders treat their subordinates?" he asks. If there are multiple locations, get the story on the atmosphere there as well.
Dr. Mann stresses that this isn’t about whether a strict or relaxed environment is better; it’s about finding a culture that aligns with your personality and professional values. "Make sure the team environment is one you want to be a part of."
5. Patient reviews are negative
Dr. Mann additionally suggests paying attention to patient reviews. "If there are a lot of negative patient reviews on sites like Healthgrades, and these concerns aren’t being addressed, that’s another red flag," he says. While patient reviews aren’t everything, they can provide insight into a practice or hospital's reputation and how seriously it takes patient feedback.
6. The work-life balance is misaligned
Work-life balance is another critical factor. Dr. Mann suggests looking at how others in the practice value work-life balance and whether it aligns with your priorities. "If you’re a family person who values time off, you don’t want to be guilted into working when it’s not right for you," he explains. Conversely, if you prefer to work hard and put in extra hours, you might find yourself frustrated if colleagues frequently take time off, leaving you with more responsibilities.
7. Calls aren’t equitable
Ask questions that ensure equity and fairness in your new role. "If the call schedule isn’t equally distributed, or the senior doctors get privileges you don’t, that’s a problem," he says. It’s crucial you’re seen as a peer. "It’s one thing to be the low man on the totem pole; it’s another to be taken advantage of," Dr. Mann emphasizes.
Bonus tip: Guidance for those hoping to take over a practice
Dr. Mann’s advice for evaluating opportunities is to trust your gut. “When I was looking at jobs, one of my goals was to find the oldest doctor with the biggest practice I could eventually take over. When a 45-year-old doctor told me how he was ready to retire and how everything could be mine, that didn’t jive for me,” he says. Dr. Mann ultimately interviewed at over 20 practices in his preferred area. “If you don’t believe what you see, run for the hills.”
In short, you’ll want to apply this strategy even if you aren’t looking to assume the operation of a practice. You’ll more likely avoid common pitfalls and find a position that’s truly right for you.
Could you still use some mentoring in this area? Then join Dr. Mann for this upcoming Lucens Rotation: “Training to Employment: Land Your First Job After Residency & Fellowship.” It starts on September 25, 2024, and, for a limited time, we’re deferring payment until you find your first job!
